5 Must-Haves for Your Tech Toolbox

August 25, 2016

It’s no secret that technology is changing the way contractors do business. With so many technology options out there, it can be overwhelming to select the tools that will have an immediate impact on your business.

From safety and accuracy to sales and communication, here are five tech tools doing big things for the industry that you can get today, to start seeing a positive impact tomorrow.

1. Safety Apps

Managing a safe worksite is one of the most important responsibilities you have, and one of the most useful tools you have to do that is right in your pocket. Safety apps can provide more information on a range of topics and help you conduct OSHA-required safety training meetings. These applications can also help you record meetings, document incidents and print reports, so you can work from anywhere at any time of the day.

2. Drones

Not only do drones provide real-time images of a job, they also make it possible to get an accurate visual inspection of a roof remotely. This removes the risk of injury and additional damage that could come with you or your crews climbing on roofs. Drones can also save you time and hassle by removing the need to carry heavy ladders to inspect different parts of a jobsite.

3. Infrared cameras

High-powered infrared cameras enable you to see the thermal levels of structures, so you can locate faulty or vulnerable areas that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to see, with a high degree of accuracy. Using this tool can also save you headaches and your customers money by identifying specific issues like punctures or gaps in roofs.

4. ABC Connect

Any time you can get out of the office and in front of your customers you’re going to see positive results for your business. That’s why ABC Supply created ABC Connect, an online solution that integrates ABC’s products and real-time pricing with leading business management programs. Here are some of the ways ABC Connect can save you time and money:

AccuLynx Quick Order

AccuLynx connectivity gives you access to ABC Supply’s products and pricing 24/7, allowing you to create estimates with accurate prices and place orders anytime, anywhere.

EagleView Construct™

This program makes it possible for you to integrate aerial roof and wall measurement reports with real-time pricing to create materials lists and generate orders when it’s convenient for you. By removing the need to interpret handwritten information or hand sketches, you’ll experience greater efficiency and a reduced number of ordering errors that come from misinterpreting information.

Pictureit

To make it easier to help your customer visualize projects and reduce the chance of a miscommunication, ABC Connect with Pictureit allows you to create photo renderings of projects using ABC Supply’s extensive collection of roofing, siding and windows.

5. Storm-Tracking Programs

Your readiness to handle storm remediation projects that follow severe weather can significantly impact your bottom line. That’s why it’s important to use storm-tracking programs that predict, track and alert you to severe weather events with a high degree of accuracy. By getting ahead of storms, you can make sure that your business is stocked with the materials needed to assist customers with the damage that follows severe weather.